Abuse Victims Seek Court Date With Vatican

Michael Turner, one of about 90 boys abused by Father Louis Miller, a priest in the Archdiocese of Louisville in the 1960s, is hoping to bring his case to trial — against The Vatican. If successful, it could be the first case against the Holy See, which normally enjoys sovereign immunity.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:24 pm

Hamas agrees 24-hour Gaza truce, threatens suicide attacks

GAZA CITY (AFP) - Hamas agreed on Monday to hold fire against Israel for 24 hours, but warned it would resume suicide attacks if the Jewish state launched an offensive against its Gaza stronghold.
Source: AFP - Wire stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 3:38 pm

OECD sees 25m jobs at risk as Toyota warns on profits

TOKYO (AFP) - The global economic crisis could put an extra 25 million people out of work, the OECD warned, as Japan's iconic Toyota auto company on Monday forecasted its first ever operating loss and European stocks plunged on pre-Christmas gloom.
Source: AFP - Wire stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 3:37 pm

Pakistan militants 'world threat'

Militant groups in Pakistan are "the greatest danger to global peace and security", India's foreign minister says.
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 22 Dec 2008 | 3:21 pm

Suspected US missiles kill 8 in northwest Pakistan

DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Pakistan (AP) -- Suspected U.S. missile strikes killed eight people Monday in northwest Pakistan, where al-Qaida and Taliban leaders are believed hiding, officials and witnesses said....
Source: AP Top International News At 10:20 ... | 22 Dec 2008 | 3:17 pm

Suspected US missiles kill 8 in northwest Pakistan (AP)

AP - Suspected U.S. missile strikes killed eight people Monday in northwest Pakistan, where al-Qaida and Taliban leaders are believed hiding, officials and witnesses said.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 3:17 pm

Stocks fluctuate as investors look for good news (AP)

AP - Wall Street began a holiday-shortened week cautiously Monday, as stocks fell in light trading while investors reacted to a bleak outlook from Toyota Motor Corp. and disappointing earnings from drugstore operator Walgreen Co.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 3:17 pm

Toyota offers gloomy profit forecast

Toyota Motor Corp. slashed its earnings forecast Monday, projecting that it would report its first annual operating loss since it began reporting results in 1941.

Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 22 Dec 2008 | 3:17 pm

India says Pakistan shifting blame over Mumbai

NEW DELHI/ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - India accused Pakistan on Monday of trying to shift blame for the Mumbai attacks and demanded it do more to dismantle militant networks, while a top U.S. commander landed in Islamabad for more talks.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 22 Dec 2008 | 3:15 pm

India says Pakistan shifting blame over Mumbai (Reuters)

Reuters - India accused Pakistan on Monday of trying to shift blame for the Mumbai attacks and demanded it do more to dismantle militant networks, while a top U.S. commander landed in Islamabad for more talks.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 3:15 pm

British minister: Mugabe will have to step aside

LONDON (AP) -- Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe must step down from office if a power-sharing government is to succeed, Britain's minister for Africa said Monday, signaling a hardening of London's stance on its former colony....
Source: AP Top International News At 10:20 ... | 22 Dec 2008 | 3:09 pm

Romania's PM designate pledges to cut spending

Romania's prime minister designate has vowed to cut public spending by 20 percent to try to deal with a looming economic crisis.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 22 Dec 2008 | 3:08 pm

Utah supplants Nevada as fastest growing state

Utah is the nation's fastest growing state, knocking Nevada from its usual top spot.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 22 Dec 2008 | 3:06 pm

Investigators press for clues in Denver jet mishap

DENVER - Investigators returned to the charred wreckage of a Continental Airlines jetliner today in search of clues about why the plane veered off a runway in Denver and skidded...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 3:04 pm

Bitter cold, high winds chill Midwest, East - The Associated Press

Source: Google News | 22 Dec 2008 | 3:01 pm

Yuvraj laughs off Pietersen jibes

Indian bowler Yuvraj Singh replies to England captain Kevin Pietersen's "pie-chucker" taunts.
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 22 Dec 2008 | 3:00 pm

Labtayt Sulci on Saturn's Enceladus

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 22 Dec 2008 | 3:00 pm

Banks keep bailout spending secret

After receiving billions in aid from U.S. taxpayers, the nation's largest banks say they can't track exactly how they're spending the money or they simply refuse to discuss it.

Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:59 pm

NH judge to officially hand down death penalty

MANCHESTER, N.H. - Slain police officer Michael Briggs' family will get a chance today to speak to the man who killed him before that man is formally sentenced to die. ...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:56 pm

OSCE to close Georgia mission early next year

VIENNA, Austria (AP) -- Russia is forcing a team of international monitors, advisers and trainers to abandon their mission in Georgia by insisting that the two breakaway regions at the heart of this year's war be recognized as independent nations, officials said Monday....
Source: AP Top International News At 10:20 ... | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:56 pm

Bitter cold, high winds chill Midwest, East (AP)

AP - Bone-numbing cold spread Monday from the Midwest to the East, forcing millions to bundle up and scurry from place to place in a bid to spend as little time as possible outside.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:56 pm

Quiet open for stocks

NEW YORK - Stock prices are narrowly mixed after the opening bell. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is up 12 points in today's early going. The Nasdaq Composite Index...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:54 pm

Bush assailant kick-starts sales for shoemaker - CNN

Source: Google News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:54 pm

Where'd the bailout money go? Shhhh, it's a secret (AP)

AP - It's something any bank would demand to know before handing out a loan: Where's the money going?

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:52 pm

Malaysia Aims to Double Tiger Population

Malaysia launches plan to double population of endangered tigers by 2020.
Source: ABC News: International | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:52 pm

Investigators press for clues in Denver jet mishap (AP)

AP - Investigators returned to the charred wreckage of a Continental Airlines jetliner Monday in search of clues about why the plane veered off a runway in Denver and skidded into a shallow ravine.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:50 pm

Dec. 31 trial date for shoe-hurling Iraqi reporter

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - The Iraqi reporter who threw his shoes at U.S. President George W. Bush and called him a "dog" will stand trial on December 31, a court official said Monday.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:49 pm

Toyota projects operating loss for year amid slump (AP)

AP - Toyota Motor Corp. projected its first-ever operating loss since it began such reports, acknowledging Monday that its nine-year stretch of global vehicle-sales growth had stalled.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:47 pm

Thai king calls for peace after political turmoil

BANGKOK, Thailand - Thailand's revered monarch called on the new government to make peace a priority Monday, ending his long silence on months of political unrest that...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:44 pm

Afghan leader presses U.S. military for answers

President Hamid Karzai pressed America's top military leader Monday on the U.S. strategy in Afghanistan as it prepares to pour ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:44 pm

Israel Prepares for Possible Gaza Action

Israeli diplomats seek to ready international opinion for possible Gaza action.
Source: ABC News: International | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:44 pm

Brazil revises 2008 growth upward

Brazil's Central Bank says economic growth this year should be faster than expected — adjusting its estimate of GDP growth to 5.6 percent from 5 percent.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:42 pm

14 flights canceled in Rome amid labor unrest

ROME - Italian airport officials say 14 flights at Rome's main airport have been canceled because Alitalia ground workers are in union meetings. The officials say...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:42 pm

Charges against defendants in the Fort Dix case

— Mohamad Ibrahim Shnewer, 23, Cherry Hill, N.J., U.S. citizen born in Jordan. Drove a taxi, did construction work, worked at family's market.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:39 pm

Walgreen Posts Lower Net, Reins In Costs - Wall Street Journal

Source: Google News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:39 pm

Israel Considers Major Offensive in Response to Gaza Rocket Fire - Voice of America

Source: Google News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:39 pm

Suspected US drone attack in Pakistan kills at least seven Taliban - Christian Science Monitor

Source: Google News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:38 pm

Monitor Ends Its Georgia Mission - New York Times

Source: Google News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:37 pm

Pakistan Red Mosque arms stolen

A large cache of arms seized from Pakistani militants inside Islamabad's Red Mosque last year is stolen from the police.
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:36 pm

Family: Shoe-Thrower Will Do It Again

Brother of shoe-throwing Iraqi journalist says apology letter was forced.
Source: ABC News: International | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:36 pm

Iraqi parliament to hold emergency session

BAGHDAD - Iraqi lawmakers called an emergency closed-door session of parliament Monday to try to remove the speaker after a row over an Iraqi journalist who threw his shoes...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:35 pm

Iraq shoe-thrower's brother says he'd do it again

BAGHDAD (AP) -- The Iraqi journalist who threw his shoes at President George W. Bush says he would do it again and that he was forced to write a letter of apology after being tortured in jail, the journalist's brother claimed Monday....
Source: AP Top International News At 10:20 ... | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:35 pm

Winds ease as Iowa braces for more snow - Chicago Tribune

Source: Google News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:33 pm

Toyota Expects Its First Loss in 70 Years - New York Times

Source: Google News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:31 pm

African Union holding talks on Somalia chaos

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia - The African Union is holding talks on the violent chaos in Somalia. The AU says its peace and security council is discussing Monday how to boost...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:31 pm

Torontoist is dead. Long live Torontoist!

Since its creation in 2004, the urban blog has posted articles arousing praise, anger, attitude and amusement. Now it's slated to shut down

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:31 pm

Two Chinese giant pandas head for Taiwan

YA'AN (AFP) - A pair of giant pandas made their last public appearance in China on Monday ahead of their long-anticipated departure to Taiwan, marking a blossoming of ties between the island and its arch rival.
Source: AFP - Wire stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:31 pm

Maritimes hit as winter makes debut across Canada

Across Nova Scotia roughly 30,000 homes and businesses were without electricity, 11,000 of them in the Halifax area

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:30 pm

Cheney says Congress failed struggling automakers

Vice President Dick Cheney blamed Congress for failing to bail out the auto industry, saying the White House was forced to step ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:29 pm

Windows XP Lives for Four More Months - Gizmodo

Source: Google News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:29 pm

Somalia facing 'hidden genocide'

The UN envoy to Somalia says there is a "hidden genocide" taking place there, amid talks to boost its peacekeeping forces.
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:29 pm

British troop vote delayed in Iraq parliament

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Approval of a measure that would allow troops from Britain, Australia and a few other nations to stay in Iraq after a U.N. mandate expires at year's end fell hostage on Monday to a political row in Iraq's parliament.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:25 pm

British troop vote delayed in Iraq parliament (Reuters)

Reuters - Approval of a measure that would allow troops from Britain, Australia and a few other nations to stay in Iraq after a U.N. mandate expires at year's end fell hostage on Monday to a political row in Iraq's parliament.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:25 pm

Iraqi lawmaker dispute widens over shoe-thrower

BAGHDAD - An Iraqi lawmaker says parliament will hold an emergency session to vote on removing its speaker from office over a dispute about the Iraqi journalist who threw...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:24 pm

Japan recession deepens, China cuts rates

SINGAPORE/LONDON (Reuters) - China cut interest rates on Monday and Japan warned it was sliding deeper into a recession encroaching steadily on the global economy, closing factories and throttling trade.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:23 pm

WATCH: Hanukkah Around the World

Source: ABC News: International | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:23 pm

U.S.-Afghan Operation Kills 20 Insurgents

Official: 20 insurgents killed in US-Afghan operation along Pakistan border.
Source: ABC News: International | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:22 pm

Karzai presses top US military leader on buildup

KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) -- President Hamid Karzai pressed America's top military leader Monday on the U.S. strategy in Afghanistan as it prepares to pour up to 30,000 more forces into the country....
Source: AP Top International News At 10:20 ... | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:22 pm

Karzai presses top US military leader on buildup (AP)

AP - President Hamid Karzai pressed America's top military leader Monday on the U.S. strategy in Afghanistan as it prepares to pour up to 30,000 more forces into the country.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:21 pm

Hanukkah holiday duels with Santa - MiamiHerald.com

Source: Google News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:21 pm

Apps we love

Juiced-up search, opening troubled files online and testing your gaming requirements

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:21 pm

My dad wants a hores but my mom says no!

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:20 pm

African Union holding talks on Somalia chaos

The African Union is holding talks on the violent chaos in Somalia.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:19 pm

At least eight dead in strike on northwest Pakistan (AFP)

AFP - Two suspected US missile strikes on a tribal area in northwest Pakistan known as a hub of Taliban and Al-Qaeda activity, on Monday killed at least eight militants, officials said.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:12 pm

At least eight dead in strike on northwest Pakistan

PESHAWAR, Pakistan (AFP) - Two suspected US missile strikes on a tribal area in northwest Pakistan known as a hub of Taliban and Al-Qaeda activity, on Monday killed at least eight militants, officials said.
Source: AFP - Wire stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:12 pm

Bechtel to be consultant on Egypt's nuke project

Egypt's electricity minister says the country has picked U.S. construction giant Bechtel as a consultant for the country's first nuclear reactor.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:11 pm

Big Winners Share $3 Billion Lotto Jackpot

Lucky Spaniards shared a $3.23 billion jackpot Monday as part of a Christmas lottery billed as one of the world's biggest.
Source: FOXNews.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:10 pm

Making Hospitals Greener — and Patients Healthier

Many hospitals are built with materials, like particleboard, PVC flooring and even conventional paint, that can leach poisonous substances. What's more, the chemicals used to clean hospitals — chlorine, laundry detergents and softeners, ammonia — contain toxic ingredients and can cause respiratory disease.

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:10 pm

Laid off and tongue-tied

Talk of fresh layoffs and shaky employment situations will inevitably slip into conversations this holiday week

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:08 pm

Cyprus probes suspect package at U.S. embassy

NICOSIA (Reuters) - A suspect package was sent to the U.S. embassy in Cyprus on Monday and authorities were carrying out tests to determine what it contained, officials said.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:04 pm

I came, I saw, I haggled - kinda

Armed with a tipsheet, Sarah Hampson hits the floor. The salespeople saw her coming from a mile away

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:03 pm

Investigators probe Denver runway crash

Investigators offered no indication Sunday as to what caused a Continental Airlines jet to skid off a Denver runway Saturday ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:01 pm

New TNK-BP board elected

Anglo-Russian oil joint venture TNK-BP elected a completely new board at an extraordinary shareholders' meeting Monday, bringing to a close one of the most bitter corporate disputes in Russia this year.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 22 Dec 2008 | 2:00 pm

Review: `Marley & Me' yanks at heartstrings

Aww, look at that cute, fluffy puppy in those "Marley & Me" ads.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:59 pm

Japan Wanted U.S. to Use Nukes Against China in '65

Japan's longest-serving prime minister — a Nobel Peace laureate — asked the U.S. in 1965 to deploy nuclear weapons against China if war broke out between the Asian rivals, according to newly declassified government files obtained by Kyodo news agency.
Source: FOXNews.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:59 pm

Thailand's new cabinet sworn in

Thailand's king swears in the new cabinet, with an appeal for peace and order following months of anti-government protests.
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:58 pm

Iraq non-US troop vote postponed

A vote in the Iraqi parliament on a resolution allowing non-US forces to remain in the country after 31 December is postponed.
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:56 pm

Woolworths says 2Entertain talks continue with BBC

Woolworths Group PLC said Monday that talks with BBC Worldwide about the possible sale of Woolworth's stake in their DVD publishing joint venture are ongoing, amid press speculation that the potential value of the deal has dropped dramatically since Woolworths collapsed last month.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:56 pm

Toyota projects first operating loss since 1941

NAGOYA, Japan - Toyota Motor Corp. slashed its earnings forecast Monday, projecting that it would report its first annual operating loss for the fiscal year through March...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:55 pm

Let's make a deal

As retailers struggle to make sales, consumers have the power to negotiate a better price. And as veteran bargain hunters will tell you, a 25% discount is just a haggle away

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:55 pm

Kuwait's Kharafi pledges $3bn investment in Egypt

The vice chairman of al-Kharafi Group says the Kuwaiti conglomerate is planning $3 billion in new investments in Egypt next year.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:54 pm

Mugabe "a mad dictator," U.N. rights expert says

GENEVA (Reuters) - Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe is "a mad dictator" who has lost all sense of reality, a United Nations human rights expert said on Monday.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:52 pm

Russia warns of gas supply disruptions to Europe

MOSCOW (AFP) - Russia raised the spectre of gas cuts to Europe over the winter, warning on Monday that it did not rule out supply disruptions as a result of the dispute with Ukraine over non-payment of debts.
Source: AFP - Wire stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:51 pm

Iraq parliament may remove speaker over shoe incident

An Iraqi lawmaker says parliament will hold an emergency session to vote on removing its speaker from office over a row last ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:47 pm

Iraq shoe-thrower to go on trial amid new torture claims

BAGHDAD (AFP) - The Iraqi journalist thrust to instant fame when he threw his shoes at US President George W. Bush will go on trial this month on charges that carry up to 15 years in jail, a judge said on Monday.
Source: AFP - Wire stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:41 pm

Police chief to be arraigned for boy's death

SPRINGFIELD - A police chief in western Massachusetts is scheduled to be arraigned on an involuntary manslaughter charge in connection with the death of an 8-year-old boy...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:40 pm

What Do You Want for Christmas? (Comic)

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:40 pm

Russia senators approve longer presidency

Constitutional amendment has fuelled speculation Vladimir Putin will return as head of state

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:40 pm

Toyota sees first operating loss

NAGOYA, Japan (Reuters) - Toyota Motor Corp forecast a first-ever annual operating loss, blaming a relentless sales slide and a crippling rise in the yen in what it said was an emergency unprecedented in its 70-year history.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:39 pm

Nativity diary

Will donkey number four make it to Bethlehem?
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:38 pm

Spaniards watch the draw of El Gordo, the world's richest lottery

The winning numbers in the world's richest lottery, El Gordo or the Fat One, with $3.2bn of prize-money, have been announced.
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:35 pm

New York marshals won't evict people at holidays

The marshals who evict people from their New York City apartments have begun an unofficial two-week holiday.

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:29 pm

Thai king calls for peace after turmoil

King Bhumibol Adulyadej presided over a swearing-in ceremony for cabinet led by Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:28 pm

WATCH: Old Wives' Lies

Source: ABC News: International | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:25 pm

Battle for Sri Lanka rebel HQ rages

At least 66 die as battles araound the town of Kilinochchi intensify for second week

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:24 pm

Cyprus: Suspicious Package at US Embassy

Fire crews remove suspicious package from US Embassy in Cyprus.
Source: ABC News: International | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:22 pm

Brakes looked at in Continental runway incident: report

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Braking problems may be to blame for a Continental Airlines flight running off a runway in Denver this week-end, according to an online report in the Wall Street Journal on Sunday.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:17 pm

Obama's Blagojevich report to explain staff's role

President-elect Barack Obama's review of his staff's contacts with Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich did not include records of conversations ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:12 pm

Sex slavery: Living the American nightmare

The trafficking of immigrants as sex slaves is far more prevalent than is popularly understood, generating more than $9.5 billion a year, federal authorities and immigrant activists say.

Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 22 Dec 2008 | 1:07 pm

HUGE Hoth ice world Star Wars LEGO Diorama [PHOTOS]

This is the entire 93-PHOTO set of the Hoth base from Empire Strikes Back. Astounding. On brothers-brick.com that it took four years and $3,000 to complete.

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:50 pm

Scientists discover new forest, species on Google Earth

Conservationists have found a host of new species after discovering uncharted new territory on the internet map Google Earth.

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:50 pm

Day in pictures

Some eye-catching images from around the world
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:47 pm

Israeli diplomats prepare for possible Gaza action

Israeli diplomats have been instructed to highlight the plight of Israelis under rocket fire from Gaza, officials said Monday, ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:42 pm

Earth Watch

Reasons for caution over Obama's 'green dream'
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:40 pm

Israeli diplomats prepare for possible Gaza action

JERUSALEM (AP) -- Israeli diplomats have been instructed to highlight the plight of Israelis under rocket fire from Gaza, officials said Monday, with the apparent aim of preparing world opinion for possible stepped-up action by Israel's military....
Source: AP Top International News At 10:20 ... | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:37 pm

Emperor Akihito's birthday events curtailed due to cold symptoms+

(Kyodo) _ The Imperial Household Agency said Monday a few events scheduled for Tuesday to mark the 75th birthday of Emperor Akihito will be canceled, while others will be curtailed,...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNewsWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:29 pm

'Tortured' Shoe-Thrower Would Do It Again, Brother Says

The Iraqi journalist who threw his shoes at President George W. Bush says he would do it again and that he was forced to write a letter of apology after being tortured in jail, the journalist's brother claimed Monday.
Source: FOXNews.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:28 pm

Alexandra Burke becomes fastest-selling female solo artist

Alexandra Burke's recording of the Leonard Cohen song Hallelujah has set a new record by becoming the fastest-selling single by a female solo artist. The X Factor winner claimed the Christmas number one spot with her version of the song, selling 576,000 CDs and downloads.

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:20 pm

Israeli diplomats prepare for possible Gaza action

Israeli diplomats have been instructed to highlight the plight of Israelis under rocket fire from Gaza, officials said Monday, with the apparent aim of preparing world opinion for possible...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNewsWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:18 pm

Alleged arms smuggler Bout testifies in Thailand

BANGKOK, Thailand (AP) -- The man dubbed the "Merchant of Death" for his alleged arms smuggling activities took the stand Monday for the first time to fight extradition to the United States and deny charges that he conspired to arm Colombian rebels....
Source: AP Top International News At 10:20 ... | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:16 pm

Suspected U.S. Strike in Pakistan Kills 8

Officials, witnesses say suspected US strike kills 8 in northwest Pakistan.
Source: ABC News: International | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:16 pm

Soccer: Kashima striker Marquinhos named J-League Player of the Year+

(Kyodo) _ Brazilian striker Marquinhos was named J-League Player of the Year on Monday after helping Kashima Antlers win the league title for the second successive season. Marquinhos...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNewsWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:15 pm

Japan recession deepens, China cuts rates

British central bankers said interest rate cuts alone would not cure growing global economic ills

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:15 pm

Belarus seeking $3B loan from Moscow

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko met with his Russian counterpart Monday for talks that reportedly included a request for $3 billion in loans to help Belarus' Soviet-style economy...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNewsWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:14 pm

Defense Ministry reform to shift more power to SDF officers+

(Kyodo) _ The Defense Ministry on Monday finalized a basic reform policy for the ministry that will beef up the authority of ranking uniformed officers over the operations of the...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNewsWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:09 pm

Russia forces OSCE to start Georgia pullout January 1

VIENNA (Reuters) - The OSCE will begin withdrawing its mission to Georgia on January 1 after Russia blocked a proposal to extend it, officials said on Monday.
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNewsWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:03 pm

Far Side Comics Reenacted in Real Life

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:00 pm

TVA dike bursts in Tenn.; 15 homes flooded

A retention pond wall collapsed early Monday morning at a power plant run by the nation's largest public utility, releasing a ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:58 am

Gloomy economic forecasts fail to curb Green enthusiasm

turns to the storm clouds on Canada's economic horizon, Richard Vinson smiles and confidently predicts plenty of sunny days ahead for his business. Vinson is the marketing and sales...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNewsWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:52 am

I'm Linux: Linux Commercials Coming Soon To Television

A video contest is being held to showcase "just what Linux means to those who use it, and hopefully inspires many to try it." It's up to you to assemble an ad that will rival those of the high-honed ad agencies contracted by Apple and Microsoft.

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:50 am

The Internet's 100 Oldest Dot-Com Domains

The Internet's been around in some form for decades. It wasn't until the mid-80s, though, that the Web as we know it started coming together -- and those precious dot-com domains started getting snatched up.

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:50 am

Verdict expected Monday in Fort Dix plot case

It appears that five men accused of plotting an attack on the U.S. Army's Fort Dix will soon learn their fate.

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:49 am

Belgium seeks new PM to steer it out of crises

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Belgium sought a new leader on Monday to steer it out of both a political and economic crisis, although there was little sign that rival parties could agree who should...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNewsWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:48 am

Alleged arms smuggler Bout testifies in Thailand

The man dubbed the "Merchant of Death" for his alleged arms smuggling activities took the stand Monday for the first time to fight extradition to the United States and deny charges that he...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNewsWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:40 am

Palestinians unhappy with Abbas' frequent absences

In four years as Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas has traveled to the far corners of the earth, but never set foot in the ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:39 am

WATCH: A Christmas Symbol Struggles to Survive

Source: ABC News: International | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:36 am

Suspected U.S. drones kill 7 in Pakistan: agents

DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Pakistan (Reuters) - Suspected U.S. drones fired at least two missiles into Pakistan's South Waziristan region on the Afghan border on Monday, killing seven people, intelligence agency officials and residents said.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:31 am

Palestinians unhappy with Abbas' frequent absences

RAMALLAH, West Bank (AP) -- In four years as Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas has traveled to the far corners of the earth, but never set foot in the West Bank's largest city, Hebron....
Source: AP Top International News At 10:20 ... | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:31 am

LEAD: MOF presents revised draft FY 2009 budget to meet priority needs+

TOKYO, Dec. 22 (Kyodo) _ (EDS: ADDING INFO) The Finance Ministry on Monday presented to ministries and agencies a revised draft budget for fiscal 2009 which specifies the use of a ...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNewsWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:30 am

Brother: Shoe-hurler's apology forced

The apology letter from the Iraqi journalist who threw his shoes at President George W. Bush was written against his will after he was tortured in detention, his brother said Monday.

Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:17 am

Package probed at U.S. post in Cyprus

A suspect package was sent to the U.S. embassy in Cyprus on Monday and authorities were carrying out tests to determine what it contained, officials said.
Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:15 am

Heavy security for pandas' departure

More than 500 security guards and armed police were keeping watch Monday at an airport in southwest China where a pair of pandas will take off for their new home in Taiwan, state media reported.

Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:09 am

President-Elect Obama Goes On Working Vacation

President-elect Barack Obama has gone to Hawaii for the holidays. Obama leaves Washington with his Cabinet and White House picks in place. It's a transition to executive office that many view as one of the most efficient ever. However, there are some daunting tasks facing Obama when he returns to Washington.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 22 Dec 2008 | 11:00 am

Report: SKorea seeks talks with North to fix ties

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) -- South Korean media reported Monday that Seoul is seeking secret contacts with the North to defuse escalating tensions on the peninsula. But officials in the South denied they were pursuing such talks....
Source: AP Top International News At 10:20 ... | 22 Dec 2008 | 10:58 am

Want to Visit Kim Jong Il's Home?

Former villa of North Korea's first family is now a tourist site.
Source: ABC News: International | 22 Dec 2008 | 10:15 am

Map locating South Waziristan in Pakistan

Map locating South Waziristan, a tribal area in northwest Pakistan known as a hub of Taliban and Al-Qaeda activity where a suspected US missile strike has killed at least eight militants, according to...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 10:13 am

A Pakistani soldier takes position along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border

A Pakistani soldier takes position on a snow covered mountainous region of North Waziristan along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. Twin suspected US missile strikes on a tribal area in northwest Pakistan...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 10:13 am

Malaysia aims to double its wild tiger population

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) -- Malaysia has launched an ambitious plan to double its wild tiger population within 12 years by protecting jungle corridors where poachers prey on the endangered big cats, activists said Monday....
Source: AP Top International News At 10:20 ... | 22 Dec 2008 | 10:13 am

A graphic showing the number of soldiers still in Iraq by country

A graphic showing the number of soldiers still in Iraq by country. Iraqi lawmakers are set to vote Monday on a resolution that will determine the fate of non-US foreign troops in the country, mainly British...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 10:08 am

British soldiers pictured during an Iraqi army training session in Basra

British soldiers look on during an Iraqi army training session run with the advice and support of the British at a location in the north of the southern Basra province, December 18. Iraqi lawmakers were...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 10:08 am

MPs at a sesson of parliament in Baghdad

Iraqi parliamentarians a sesson of parliament in Baghdad's secure Green Zone, September 2008. Iraqi lawmakers were set to vote on Monday on a resolution that will determine the fate of non-US foreign troops...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 10:08 am

Cheney defends 8 years in office

Vice President Dick Cheney blamed Congress for failing to bail out the auto industry, saying the White House was forced to step in to save U.S. car companies.

Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 22 Dec 2008 | 10:01 am

Suspected U.S. Strikes Kill 8 In Pakistan

Suspected U.S. missile strikes have killed at least eight people in volatile northwest Pakistan, officials and witnesses say.
Source: World News: CBSNews.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 9:40 am

Pakistani Islamists burn US and Indian flags during a protest in Lahore

Pakistani Islamists burn US and Indian flags during a protest in Lahore on December 5. The demonstrators protested against US missile strikes and Indian blame that Pakistan's military intelligence agency...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 8:45 am

US Air Force file photo of an unmanned predator aerial vehicle with a hellfire missile attached.

US Air Force file photo of an unmanned predator aerial vehicle with a hellfire missile attached. Twin suspected US missile strikes Monday on a tribal area in northwest Pakistan known as a hub of Taliban...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 8:45 am

Map locating South Waziristan in Pakistan where a suspected US missile strike killed at least eight

Map locating South Waziristan in Pakistan where a suspected US missile strike killed at least eight militants Monday, according to officials.
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 8:45 am

The leader of Zimbabwe's opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) and prime minister-designate, Morgan Tsvangirai

The leader of Zimbabwe's opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) and prime minister-designate, Morgan Tsvangirai, gives a press conference in Gaborone on December 19. Zimbabwe's power-sharing deal...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 8:36 am

imbabwean President Robert Mugabe

Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe is pictured addressing delegates in Bindura on December 20. Zimbabwe's power-sharing deal between Mugabe and the opposition has been made "impossible" by Mugabe, who...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 22 Dec 2008 | 8:36 am

Missiles kill 8 in northwest Pakistan

Suspected U.S. missile strikes killed at least eight people Monday in volatile northwest Pakistan, officials and witnesses said.
Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 22 Dec 2008 | 8:28 am

Winter storms hit western, eastern U.S.

SEATTLE (Reuters) - Winter storms walloped much of the northern stretches of the United States on Sunday, leaving holiday travelers stranded and causing power outages as blizzards and freezing rain struck parts of the East and West.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 22 Dec 2008 | 8:14 am

Yanks, Manny reportedly near $75 million deal

The New York Yankees aren't done spending money yet. Less than a week after introducing high-priced pitchers CC Sabathia and A.J. Burnett -- and doling out $243.5 million in the process -- the Yankees are reportedly nearing a deal with slugger Manny Ramirez.

Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 22 Dec 2008 | 8:13 am

Trade barriers toughen with global slump

Only a few weeks after world leaders vowed at a Washington summit to reject trade protectionism and adhere to free-market principles as they combat the global financial crisis, a host of nations are already breaking that promise.

Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 22 Dec 2008 | 7:54 am

Will Obama Press For End Of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell'?

The military's policy for gays in the armed forces was an awkward compromise in the 1990s. Many say it is now outdated — but will the new president want to take up the same issue that roiled Bill Clinton's White House debut?

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 22 Dec 2008 | 6:59 am

Japan's gloom deepens as exports suffer record drop

TOKYO (AFP) - Japan's woes from the global crisis deepened Monday as data showed a record drop in exports and the government said for the first time in nearly seven years that the economy was getting worse.
Source: AFP - Wire stories | 22 Dec 2008 | 6:27 am

Survey Reports Scientists 'Suspicious' Of FBI

The agency may need an image makeover if it wants the expertise and cooperation of the nation's top researchers. According to the report, members of the scientific community would rather discuss their work with total strangers than an FBI agent.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 22 Dec 2008 | 5:51 am

Humanitarian Crises Rampant In Africa

Spiraling violence in Somalia, forced civilian displacements in eastern Congo, and neglected medical emergencies in Myanmar and Zimbabwe were among the Top 10 humanitarian crises of 2008, according to a list released by Doctors Without Borders.
Source: World News: CBSNews.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 5:30 am

Ceremonies Mark 20th Anniv. Of Pan Am 103

Ceremonies were held in the Scottish town of Lockerbie to mark the 20th anniversary of the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103, in which 270 people were killed. Services are also being held at Heathrow Airport in London and in the United States.
Source: World News: CBSNews.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 5:30 am

Help Calls In L.A. On The Rise As Economy Tanks

Los Angeles County's 211 telephone service provides help for callers with basic needs like food and shelter. As the economy falters, the call center is seeing a dramatic rise in calls, especially from families facing foreclosure.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 22 Dec 2008 | 5:01 am

U.S. Now Opposes Power Sharing In Zimbabwe

The U.S. can no longer support a proposed Zimbabwean power-sharing deal that would leave Robert Mugabe, "a man who's lost it," as president, the top U.S. envoy for Africa told reporters.
Source: World News: CBSNews.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 5:00 am

Truce Ends, Rocket Barrage Strikes Israel

Israel's top security official warned that Gaza militants can hit more Israeli cities with longer-range rockets, on a day when rockets exploded in border towns and a coastal city after an Israel-Hamas truce expired.
Source: World News: CBSNews.com | 22 Dec 2008 | 4:00 am

Doctors name top 10 humanitarian crises of 2008

NEW YORK - Spiralling violence in Somalia, forced civilian displacements in eastern Congo, and neglected medical emergencies in Myanmar and Zimbabwe were among the Top 10 humanitarian crises of 2008, according to an annual list released...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 22 Dec 2008 | 12:01 am

Mumbai Hotels Targeted In Attacks Reopen

Tourists in Mumbai are once again checking in at the Taj and Oberoi hotels. The doors opened this weekend for the first time since last month's terrorist attacks. Host Andrea Seabrook charts the reopening — and notes that large sections of the damaged hotels won't open for months, or even years.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 21 Dec 2008 | 10:20 pm

U.S.: Unity Not Possible With Mugabe

The chief U.S. diplomat in Africa ratcheted up the language against Zimbabwe's longtime president Robert Mugabe on Sunday. Assistant Secretary of State Jendayi Frazer says the United States won't lift sanctions against that country until Mugabe is gone. NPR's Charlayne Hunter-Gault talks to host Andrea Seabrook about the developments.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 21 Dec 2008 | 10:16 pm

Russia Seeks Crackdown On Government Critics

As the Russian economy tanks, Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's government is turning up the heat on its critics. A draft law would expand the definition of treason — and that has human rights organizations worried. NPR's Moscow correspondent Gregory Feifer and host Andrea Seabrook discuss the law's potential implications.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 21 Dec 2008 | 10:01 pm

Passengers escape burning jet in Denver; 38 hurt

DENVER - Passengers expecting a flight to Texas instead had to flee their burning airliner, sprawled in a smoke-filled ravine off a runway with the fuselage partially buckled and one engine and part of its landing gear ripped off. There...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 21 Dec 2008 | 8:51 pm

US Chevrolet dealer crushes competition

A Chevrolet dealer literally crushed his Asian auto competition. Hawaii Chevrolet general sales manager James Severtson arranged for a Chevrolet Suburban outfitted with massive tyres costing US$5000 apiece to drive over a Honda...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 21 Dec 2008 | 8:15 pm

McCanns appeal for help to find Madeleine

The parents of missing English girl Madeleine McCann issued an emotional appeal yesterday to try to ensure this is the last Christmas they spend without their daughter. Kate and Gerry McCann released fresh video footage of Madeleine...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 21 Dec 2008 | 7:15 pm

U.S.: Zimbabwe President 'Has Lost It'

In a significant policy change, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Jendayi Frazer said the U.S. has concluded there can be no power-sharing government as long as Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe is in power.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 21 Dec 2008 | 6:25 pm

China joins anti-pirate fleet off Somalia

China will send two Navy destroyers and a support vessel to the Gulf of Aden to combat piracy off the Somali coast, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said. The warships will join the growing number of international warships patrolling...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 21 Dec 2008 | 6:15 pm

South Africa's Boesak joins rival party

The defection of a high-ranking African National Congress official to a breakaway rival has given new hope that effective single-party rule in South Africa is over. Allan Boesak, a prominent anti-apartheid campaigner, caused consternation...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 21 Dec 2008 | 5:15 pm

Witnesses, Families Remember Lockerbie Bombing

Twenty years ago Sunday, a terrorist bomb exploded on a Pan Am jumbo jet, scattering fiery wreckage on top of the quiet town of Lockerbie, Scotland. After two decades, the tragedy's impact is still being felt.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 21 Dec 2008 | 4:42 pm

U.S. to Replace British Troops Leaving Iraq

American troops will move into southern Iraq early next year to replace departing British forces, the top U.S. general in Iraq said.
Source: FOXNews.com | 21 Dec 2008 | 4:20 pm

LA folk find good food hard to come by

Selma Lozoya is working to bring better food to one of the poorest communities in America, South Los Angeles, where neon lights illuminate a greasy fast-food vista, and obesity and diabetes are rampant. While grocery stores and...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 21 Dec 2008 | 4:15 pm

Troops may double in Taleban war

The top United States military officer says the Pentagon could double the number of American forces in Afghanistan by the middle of next year to 60,000 - the largest estimate of potential reinforcements ever publicly suggested. Admiral...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 21 Dec 2008 | 4:00 pm

Beaten shoe protester hit in an eye with a gun

The Iraqi journalist who hurled his shoes at President George W. Bush was viciously beaten after being taken into custody, according to a police officer who accompanied him to prison. Wrestled to the ground and then buried under...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 21 Dec 2008 | 4:00 pm

Beefed up hotels return to business

MUMBAI - Doormen in white suits and black turbans greeted visitors to the Oberoi with a bow as the hotel reopened three weeks after it was targeted in a militant rampage. Security was noticeably tighter as guards scanned bags and...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 21 Dec 2008 | 4:00 pm

Deposed Mauritanian President Freed From House Arrest

The deposed president of Mauritania was set free Sunday after 4 1/2 months under house arrest and immediately began working to retake power from the junta that overthrew him, a spokesman said.
Source: FOXNews.com | 21 Dec 2008 | 3:30 pm